Staying warm

Making sure you get the help you need with your heating bills this winter is essential - and financially well worth your while.

This time last year, the bad weather struck with its full force and the forecasters are already warning that snow could be on its way very soon.

And knowing what benefits you're entitled to is the first line of defence against the cold.

Anyone over 60 years of age can receive a "winter fuel payment" of £200 (per household).

And if you're over 80, there's an additional £100 to be had, and this money is sent to you in advance, so that you don't get caught out when the bills arrive.

Claims

There's also a "cold weather payment," which amounts to £8.50 every time there is a freezing period of weather.

This is a means-tested benefit and is subject to some fairly strict criteria, but it's nevertheless very worthwhile.

Winter Fuel Payment Over 60yrs - £200 Over 80yrs - extra £100 Paid in advance

There were 1.6 million cold weather payments made last year, and several thousand people have received money already this winter.

In particular, Scotland had a number of claims, and the largest response - 33,000 - came from densely populated areas near Durham and North Yorkshire.

Criteria

There are a few hurdles to jump through before you're eligible for this money, for example, what your circumstances are.

The cold weather payment is only payable to people over 60, families with children under five, the sick or disabled, those receiving income support, or people with a guaranteed element of their pension credit.

Then there's the temperature criteria.

Cold Weather Payment £8.50 a time Paid after freezing periods Means-tested

An average of naught degrees or less, so freezing, must be forecast, or occur for seven days.

And the good thing is, the money will then be sent to you automatically - although contact your local social services if you're worried about this.

Finally, it's worth knowing that the organisation Warm Front welcome applications for grants of up to £2500, which can be used to insulate your home.